Toyota Harrier 2021: new platform and advanced options

A presentation of the new Toyota Harrier crossover of the 2020 model year took place on the Internet. The fourth-generation car moved to the modern GA-K platform (TNGA architecture), acquired a different chassis configuration, was slightly transformed in appearance and received a luxurious interior with artificial leather trim. The official debut of the new product on the domestic market will take place in June 2021, at which time the exact configuration and price will be announced. However, the remaining details are already known, so now, without waiting for the summer, we can begin a detailed review of the model.

Car appearance

It attracts attention with the harmonious proportions of the crossover.

The front bumper has a streamlined shape and is complemented by an aerodynamic “skirt”. The massive body kit protruding forward gives the car a slightly aggressive look.

LED fog lights are installed in neat recesses. The wide, distinctive air intake adds recognition to the car. In the side parts of the front bumper there are outlet openings for the brake disc ventilation channels.

The headlights are narrow and long, resembling squinted eyes. Lighting elements are created based on LED technology. The entire space between the head optics is occupied by the radiator grille. In its center there is a logo in the form of a harrier (this is how the word harrier is translated into Russian).

The appearance is characterized by harmonious proportions.

The rear of the body in the photo resembles an elegant pleasure boat. Its body kit, compared to the front one, protrudes less. The “slanted” taillights are connected to each other by a narrow reflective strip. The headlights protrude slightly back, which is typical for all Toyota models of recent generations.

Exterior design and colors

Compared to the previous version, the third is available in a shorter body. However, this did not make the car's appearance any less attractive. It is given elegance by a thin metal edging under the lower edges of the glass. Door handles are chromed or painted in body color.

The car was produced in 12 shades of colors - from pearl white to brown and ebony black.

Interior and cabin spaciousness

Despite the reduction in body length, capacity has increased compared to previous versions. The distance between the front and rear seats has increased by 47 mm. The trunk volume has increased by 17 liters and is 456 liters.

The interior of the cabin combines exquisite simplicity, luxury and nobility:

1. The multimedia system display occupies most of the center console.
2. Dual-zone climate control is controlled by touch buttons. Now you just need to lightly run your finger over them to set the desired temperature in the cabin.
3. Blue night lighting looks pleasant and unobtrusive.
4. The upholstery of the seats in different configurations is made of natural or artificial leather and high-quality textiles.

The interior of the cabin combines luxury and nobility.
A characteristic detail is the logo in the form of a harrier, embossed on the inner door trim.

Vehicle dimensions

The dimensions of the Toyota Harrier are shown in the table:

Changes in dimensions and design

Having tried on the new GA-K “trolley”, the updated Harrier has surpassed its predecessor in size. Its length is 15 mm longer (4740 mm), its width is 20 mm longer (1855 mm), and its wheelbase is 30 mm longer (2690 mm). Only the height is smaller - 1660 mm versus 1690 mm (-30 mm). The ground clearance according to the specification is 195 mm.

Photos of Toyota Harrier 2020

From the outside, the “fourth” Toyota Harrier is recognizable by its narrow headlights with L-shaped running lights, a large trapezoidal air intake in a powerful bumper and a solid rear chandelier of lights in the form of a thin strip. In general, with its externally smoothed shapes and body proportions, the newcomer resembles the related crossovers RAV4 and Highlander. The SUV will have seven body colors and 19-inch wheels with 225/55 R19 tires.

Options and prices

The third generation car was produced in 5 main trim levels:

1. Grand.
2. Elegance.
3. Elegance G's.
4. Premium.
5. Premium Advanced Package.

Prices on the secondary market depend on mileage, technical condition and the region where the car is sold.

Grand

The Grand trim level was equipped with a 2-liter engine producing 151 hp. With.

The basic set of options includes:

• electric power steering;
• stamped steel wheels;
• front fog lights;
• glass with factory tinting and UV protection;
• starting the engine with a button or remote control key;
• driver's seat height adjustment;
• side and front airbags, incl. to protect feet;
• air conditioning and cabin filter.

Driving safety and road stability are ensured by anti-lock braking system (ABS) and traction control (TCS), brake assist (BAS) and electronic stability control (ESP).

The cost of a Grand version car is from RUB 1,958,600.

Elegance

It differs from the previous Elegance configuration:

• 18-inch aluminum wheels;
• light sensor;
• additional brake light;
• side mirrors with turn signal repeater, electric drive and sun visors;
• chrome door handles;
• telescopic vertical steering wheel adjustment;
• electric driver's seat.

In addition to air conditioning, models with dual-zone climate control were produced. The car went on sale with an alarm system installed. Additional options from the manufacturer included electric heated seats and windshield, parking sensors and a rear view camera, and an audio system with the Hands Free function.

Cost – from 2,016,000 rubles.

Elegance G's

The package includes:

• lowered suspension;
• 19-inch aluminum wheels;
• automatic air conditioning;
• start-stop system;
• LED front fog lights;
• rear spoiler

Elegance G's has a lowered suspension and automatic air conditioning.

As additional options, you can order a sunroof, navigation equipment, and a traffic jam warning system.

The price of a car of this modification is RUB 2,303,000.

Premium

Premium version includes:

• electric power steering;
• aluminum wheels;
• front fog lights (rear as an additional option);
• Rain sensor;
• electric trunk drive;
• glass with factory tinting and UV protection;
• starting the engine without a key with a button and remote control;
• electric drive and height adjustment of the driver's seat;
• power windows on all windows;
• a full set of airbags;
• lane departure prevention control;
• air conditioning and cabin filter.

Optionally, you can install a rear view camera and parking assistance systems.

The cost of the car starts from RUB 2,196,000.

Premium Advanced Package

The production of this extended modification began in 2015.

The set of options includes:

• front and rear suspension stabilizers;
• LED head optics, fog lights and lights;
• rain and light sensors;
• body-color side mirrors with electric adjustment, heated, and repeating turn signal indicators;
• electric trunk;
• chrome door handles;
• steering wheel with leather braid, telescopic adjustment;
• armrest between the rear row seats;
• electric windows;
• parking assistance system, front, side and rear view cameras.

For convenience and safety of driving, sun visors and a mirror with a dimming function are installed.

Cost excluding additional options – RUB 2,588,000.

Improved interior

The car's interior has undergone a major overhaul. As a result, a new panel appeared on the front with an original center console resembling a horse saddle. Above this “saddle” there is a horizontal display of the standard media system. In top trim levels, the screen size is 12.3 inches, and the declared functionality includes T-Connect SD navigation and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto technology.

During the modernization, the Harrier acquired higher-quality finishing materials with a pleasant texture and glass with improved sound absorption. The interior of the 2021 car is notable for its contrasting brown decorative inserts, stylized as bent wood. Among the new options available to the crossover, we note a panoramic roof with tinted glass and a digital rear view mirror with a live image recording function. In addition, the model is equipped with JBL acoustics (9 speakers) and parking sensors on both bumpers.

Like all other cars of the Japanese brand, the new Harrier is equipped with a set of Toyota Safety Sense electronic assistants. It allows you to detect pedestrians and cyclists on the road, as well as brake in front of obstacles when maneuvering in a parking lot.

Vehicle Specifications

The third generation of crossover with gasoline power units is equipped with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. The hybrid is only available with 4WD.

Engine and transmission

From 2013 to 2021 Several modifications were produced:

1. Gasoline 4-cylinder engine 3ZR-FAE with a volume of 2 liters and a power of 151 hp. p., front-wheel drive.
2. Two-liter 151-horsepower engine combined with all-wheel drive.
3. Hybrid 152-horsepower 2AR-FXE 2.5-liter unit with all-wheel drive.

The engine is located transversely and has an injection distribution system. The electric motor of the hybrid version produces 105 kW for the front axle and 50 kW for the rear. Total power reaches 197 hp. With. Such a car can move in different modes. To switch to an electric motor there is a special button on the dashboard. It turns off the operation of the gasoline unit.

All modifications are equipped with a CVT gearbox. Average fuel consumption on the highway is 7 l/100 km, in the city – 8 l/100 km.

Vehicle weight

The weight of the Harrier depends on the configuration:

1. The curb weight of the Grand version is 1560 kg.
2. Elegance – 1580 kg.
3. Elegance g's – 1630 kg.
4. Premium – 1630 kg.
5. Premium Advanced Package – 1660 kg.

Steering part

Toyota Harrier is equipped with a rack and pinion system. The steering wheel is located on the right and is equipped with an electric booster. The Premium and Premium Advanced Packages feature height adjustment and telescopic adjustment.

The steering part provides the ability to turn the steered wheels.

Brakes and suspension

All modifications are equipped with front and rear ventilated disc brakes. Original pads last for 2-3 years. It is not difficult to replace them yourself: all bolts and nuts are easily tightened. The work requires a minimum of tools.

The car's suspension design is typical for most modern crossovers.

The front axle is independent, equipped with MacPherson struts. The rear is equipped with double wishbones.

When properly configured, the car has a well-balanced suspension and high driving performance. Unlike cars and crossovers, the Toyota Harrier performs well off-road.

Car handling

Most drivers note the car's good handling on asphalt and dirt roads. Thanks to the adaptive suspension, the crossover moves smoothly and without swaying at speeds of up to 140 km/h.

The electronic control system allows you to quickly adapt to the driver's driving style. Thanks to this, the car “holds” the road well and easily fits into turns. In the Toyota Harrier Hybrid, an additional control system changes the engine torque, ensuring smooth movement and eliminating sway.

Thanks to the high seating position, the driver has the opportunity to control the road and see all the cars ahead.

Technique

In the new generation, Toyota Harrier is offered with a modified set of power plants. The role of the base unit is now played by a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated gasoline engine M20A-FKS, which produces 171 hp. and 207 Nm. Paired with it is a Direct Shift-CVT variator, which sends traction either only to the front axle or to both axles. In the case of an all-wheel drive layout, the model receives an AWD Integrated Management system with a Drive Mode Select switch.

In addition to the conventional internal combustion engine, the range includes the THS II hybrid unit. It consists of a 2.5-liter A25A-FXS engine (178 hp, 221 Nm) and a front electric motor (120 hp, 202 Nm). The hybrid becomes all-wheel drive when another electric motor with 54 hp is installed on the rear axle. and 121 Nm. At the same time, the total power of the system increases from the original 218 to 222 hp.

The suspension, as already noted, has acquired a new configuration for the crossover. MacPherson struts are used at the front, and an independent design with two wishbones at the rear. The shock absorbers are calibrated so that even the slightest vibrations are detected. Well, when cornering, the Active Cornering Assist system comes into play, designed to reduce understeer.

Test drive results

Based on the results of the test drive, the Harrier is distinguished by good acceleration dynamics while driving. There is some sluggishness at startup. This is done intentionally to avoid damage to the variator.

In the city and on the highway the car moves smoothly and silently. Drivers note the convenience of getting behind the wheel. Comfort is provided by seats with lateral support and a telescopic steering wheel adjustment. According to owners, even after a 10-hour drive their backs do not ache and their legs do not hurt.

The moderately stiff suspension makes driving on dirt roads and mud pleasant. The car “swallows” shallow depressions and small bumps. Discomfort is felt only in deep holes with steep edges.

Advantages of Harrier

Most owners appreciated the advantages of the Japanese crossover.

These include:

1. Spacious, comfortable interior with a beautiful design.
2. Reliability of the car, good handling in the city and off-road capability.
3. Adaptive suspension makes the ride pleasant even on rough roads.
4. Economical fuel consumption and inexpensive maintenance.
5. High-quality sound insulation.
6. Comfortable chairs. The driver and passengers do not get tired even on long trips.

According to the owners, the Toyota Harrier is a car suitable for all occasions. It has proven itself well in the harsh Far Eastern climate.

Harrier Disadvantages

Along with the advantages, some disadvantages of the crossover were named:

1. Frequent gearbox breakdowns. This is due to the “capriciousness” of the variator, which does not tolerate temperature changes, sudden acceleration and braking. Transmission malfunctions require expensive major repairs or complete replacement.
2. Rapid failure of electronic components. The problem is due to design errors.
3. Reduced engine power due to clogging of the fuel system. To avoid this, it is recommended to carry out diagnostics and change the filter every 20 thousand km.
4. Creaking plastic and “crickets” in the cabin.
5. Small trunk volume.

In regions with cold, damp climates, owners often experience noticeable body corrosion.

Is it worth purchasing

Buying a Toyota Harrier is advisable for those who do a lot of city driving and off-road (light) driving. A gasoline engine car is suitable for all occasions. It is better to purchase a hybrid for moving around the city over short distances.

Fans of an aggressive driving style and a sharp start should remember the sensitivity of the CVT gearbox to such “experiments.”

Since the crossover was produced only for the domestic Japanese market, left-hand drive configurations were not provided. Harrier fans will have to adjust to the right-hand drive system. Side and rear view cameras will come to the rescue.

You can buy a 2015 Toyota Harrier only at auction or the secondary market. The selected car must be checked at a reliable service center.

Price and start date

Although the new product is announced for next year’s model range, SUV sales will start in the summer of 2021. True, this only applies to the Japanese market for now. The “ferret” will most likely appear on the European, American and our markets only at the beginning of 2021.

Regarding the cost, the price tag starts at 2.1 million rubles. Naturally, for the regular internal combustion engine version.

The price for the all-wheel drive hybrid has not yet been announced. For comparison, the 2021 RAV4 starts at 1.4 million.

Photos of the new Toyota Harrier:

Owner reviews

Evgeniy, 36 years old, Novorossiysk:

I ordered a Harrier at an auction. I like the appearance and interior of the cabin. On the road the car is obedient, the suspension “swallows” bumps. The radio is not Russified, and its sound is not very good.

Andrey, 30 years old, Volgograd:

So far I have driven about 7,000 km on the hybrid Harrier; I bought it with a mileage of 30,000 km. The engine and battery work flawlessly. The charge is enough for a trip around the city. I don't like the interior trim: the leather is cracked in some places. Sometimes the plastic creaks.

Pavel, 44 years old, Vladivostok:

When I purchased the Harrier, I immediately appreciated its comfort, handling and good dynamics on the road. I fill up with 95 gasoline. The downside is the uncomfortable and cramped rear seats. The driver's seats are comfortable, the back does not get tired even after many hours of driving.

Salon

The Harrier will be offered in two versions: with one or two sofas in the rear. By the number of places 5 and 7, respectively. According to the finishing materials, the use of genuine leather, fabric, metal elements and plastic is stated.

Regarding the interior design, the situation here is noticeably better than in the RAV4. In the presented photos you can see a laconic color scheme of interweaving dark gray and brown elements.

A huge display that occupies almost the entire dashboard. A well-designed center console with well-designed deflectors and a panel of physical buttons.

The central tunnel is completely lined with leather and has two cup holders and a curtain with a niche for small items. Regarding the seats, the first row consists of two sports chairs with adjustable headrests, and in the back there is a standard sofa with a folding armrest and an orthopedic backrest.